Things You Should Know About Asbestos
Asbestos. You’ve probably heard the name, but do you know what it is? While asbestos is naturally occurring and has insulating and fire-resistant properties, it can be dangerous to inhale or ingest. If you’re about to start a demolition project in Edmonton, make sure you hire a team to perform asbestos testing and, if necessary, asbestos removal. It can save you and others from serious health conditions in the future.
Learn more about asbestos in this blog post, and don’t forget to learn more about our asbestos testing and removal services.
Asbestos Is Legal
Because of its insulating and fire-resistant properties, asbestos is still used in a variety of products and building materials to this day. While many believe that asbestos can only be found in older buildings and homes, it can be found in new construction as well. This is why, no matter the age of the property, it’s important to have asbestos testing performed before starting any demolition or remodeling project.
It Becomes Dangerous Once Airborne
A material that contains asbestos poses a hazard if it’s disturbed and becomes airborne. If the material crumbles easily, it’s referred to as friable asbestos. Once the material starts to crumble, it releases the asbestos fibers into the air, making it easier to inhale. Fluffy, spray-on materials used for insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing are more friable. That said, floor tiles that are non-friable can be disturbed by drilling, sanding, and cutting. It is vital for workers to wear PPE (personal protective equipment) in an environment that contains asbestos in order to avoid exposure.
There Is No “Safe” Level of Asbestos Exposure
Another reason to invest in asbestos testing is that there is no safe level of asbestos for humans to be exposed to. Even trace amounts of asbestos need to be dealt with carefully by a professional. When you hire Downright Demolition for your demolition project in Edmonton, we require that all individuals vacate the property during asbestos testing and removal to help avoid any exposure.
It Stays in Your System
While other toxins eventually work their way out of your system, asbestos is there to stay. To prevent inhalation or ingestion, you should wear — at the very least — a respirator mask and goggles. Another way to protect yourself is to wear a hazmat suit to avoid skin contact with asbestos.
Asbestos Can Cause Serious Health Problems
It can take years for the effects of asbestos exposure to present themselves, but it is linked to some very serious health problems. Exposure can cause asbestosis, which is a lung condition that causes deep scarring that makes breathing difficult and painful. Other lung cancers have also been linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos can also cause mesothelioma, a cancer that deteriorates the lining of your internal organs. This is why hiring a team of professionals is vital for your health and safety.
Hire a Team Who Can Safely Remove Asbestos
Before starting any demolition project, make sure you schedule asbestos testing to ensure the safety of you and your team. Contact Downright Demolition in Edmonton to schedule asbestos testing and removal today.
